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Bilateral Chronic Quadriceps Tendon Ruptures Treated with Hamstring Autograft Reconstruction: A Case Report
Matthew W Feldman1, Sean M Wade2,3, Conor F McCarthy2
1Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.
Case:
A 30-year-old semiprofessional football player presented with chronic bilateral quadriceps tendon ruptures. Both quadriceps tendon ruptures were unsuitable for isolated primary repair because of tendon retraction and immobility. A novel reconstruction technique using semitendinosus and gracilis tendon autografts was performed to restore both lower extremities' disrupted extensor mechanisms. At the final follow-up, the patient regained excellent motion of both knees and returned to high-intensity activity.
Conclusion:
Chronic quadriceps tendon ruptures present challenges related to tendon quality and mobilization. Reconstruction with hamstring autograft using a Pulvertaft weave through the retracted quadriceps tendon in a high-demand athletic patient represents a novel approach for treating this injury.
